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Kevin Kim, chargé d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul (center), attends the inaugural Korea–U.S. Diplomatic Forum hosted by the Korea–U.S. Parliamentary Alliance at Lotte Hotel Seoul on November 20. / Source: Yonhap News

Kevin Kim, chargé d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, said recent instability in the West Sea was a key factor behind the decision by President Donald Trump and President Lee Jae-myung to introduce nuclear-powered submarines into South Korea’s defense posture.

Speaking at the inaugural Korea–U.S. Diplomatic Forum held at Lotte Hotel Seoul on November 20, Kim stressed that the prosperity of both nations relies on a stable security environment. “Security challenges on the Korean Peninsula and across the Indo-Pacific are continually evolving, and our two countries must respond together,” he said.

He added, “Anyone can see what is happening in the West Sea. That is why President Trump and President Lee decided to increase Korea’s defense budget and introduce new capabilities such as nuclear-powered submarines.”

Calling South Korea a “model ally,” Kim praised Seoul for investing in its own defense and for consistently supporting the continued U.S. military presence on the peninsula.

Kim described the Joint Fact Sheet released after the Nov. 14 summit as “a historic document that reflects the depth of our comprehensive partnership,” adding that it embodies the shared belief that “America’s future depends on Korea, and Korea’s future depends on America.”

He pointed to strengthened cooperation in strategic industries—including shipbuilding, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, critical minerals, and emerging technologies—as essential for both countries’ security and economic resilience.

Korean American lawmakers also attended the event. U.S. Senator Andy Kim said recent progress following presidential visits—such as investments in shipbuilding—demonstrates “meaningful momentum that will further deepen the Korea–U.S. alliance.”

Representative Young Kim emphasized that the alliance must advance beyond bilateral cooperation to become “a true global partnership that promotes freedom, peace, and prosperity around the world.”